Is built like an NFL linebacker, which can be an intimidating sight for opponents. Skates well for a man his size and owns terrific offensive savvy and a heavy shot. Can log big minutes on defense, or play the role of power forward up front. When he's on, he makes a huge impact in a game.

Flaws:

Can get caught at times because of a lack of first-step quickness. Also, he could stand to play with more consistency game in and game out. Moving back and forth between wing and defense has not always been the smoothest transition. Has battled off-ice issues, too.

Career Potential:

Unique offensive defenseman.

Career Honors & Awards

League

Honor

Description

NHL

Stanley Cup

2009-10 (Chicago)

NHL

Named to play in the NHL All-Star Game

2011-12 (Injured), 2010-11

AHL

Second All-Star Team

2006-07

Movements & Injuries

2014

4/11/2014

Missed the last 3 regular season games (upper body injury).

4/07/2014

Upper body injury, remainder of the regular season.

3/22/2014

Missed 1 game (lower body injury).

3/19/2014

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

2013

2/12/2013

Missed 5 games (lower body injury).

1/31/2013

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

2012

2/02/2012

Missed 16 games (knee injury).

1/07/2012

Knee injury, injured reserve.

2011

12/27/2011

Undisclosed, day-to-day.

3/11/2011

Missed 1 game (lower body injury).

3/09/2011

Lower body injury, day-to-day.

2/15/2011

Signed by the Atlanta Thrashers to a five-year contract extension.

2010

6/24/2010

Acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks.

2008

11/28/2008

Missed 2 games (undisclosed).

11/22/2008

Undisclosed, day-to-day.

5/21/2008

Re-signed by the Chicago Blackhawks.

2007

11/03/2007

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

10/03/2007

Assigned to Rockford (AHL).

4/06/2007

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

4/05/2007

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

4/04/2007

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

4/02/2007

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

3/21/2007

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

3/20/2007

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

1/21/2007

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

1/06/2007

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

2006

10/01/2006

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

2/27/2006

Recalled from Norfolk (AHL).

2005

9/24/2005

Assigned to Norfolk (AHL).

7/28/2005

Signed by the Chicago Blackhawks to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Byfuglien now has 15 goals, 41 points, a plus-seven rating, and a remarkable 107 penalty minutes through 62 games. He is having a dynamic fantasy season for owners.

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien didn't take any penalties on Saturday, but he still contributed to his fantasy clubs. | 02/14/2015 10:17 PM

News

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien didn't take any penalties on Saturday, but he still contributed to his fantasy clubs.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Byfuglien is fifth in the league in PIM, 107, but he showcased his skill with two assists versus the Red Wings. He assisted Chris Thorburn's goal in the first period and then Andrew Ladd's score on the power play. Byfuglien has 14 goals and 26 assists in 58 games this season.

Byfuglien's goal was unassisted. He was plus-two with three shots on net. Byfuglien has 13 goals and 23 assists in 56 game this season. He is also dominanting the penalty minutes category with 101 PIM.

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien had a goal and two assists in the, 5-3, victory over the Avalanche on Sunday. | 02/08/2015 9:02 PM

News

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien had a goal and two assists in the, 5-3, victory over the Avalanche on Sunday.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Winnipeg scored four unanswered goals in the second period with Byfuglien registering a point on three of them. His goal and one of his assists came on the power-play. Byfuglien has 13 goals and 23 assists in 55 games this season.

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien may be asked to play up front due to an injury to Evander kane. | 02/05/2015 3:25 PM

News

Jets blueliner Dustin Byfuglien may be asked to play up front due to an injury to Evander kane.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Byfuglien started the season as a forward, but returned to his natural defensive position and has played well since the change. He posted nine points in 25 games during October and November and 24 points in his last 26 games. This change won't make fantasy owners very happy.

He also had five shots on goal and six penalty minutes to help fantasy owners out. Byfuglien now has 12 goals and 31 points through 47 games.

Jets defender Dustin Byfuglien had two goals and an assist in Tuesday's, 8-2, victory over the Panthers. | 01/13/2015 10:43 PM

News

Jets defender Dustin Byfuglien had two goals and an assist in Tuesday's, 8-2, victory over the Panthers.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

When the team scores eight goals, there was plenty of points to go around, but most of them went to Mathieu Perreault, who scored four goals, and Byfuglien. Byfuglien assisted Perreault's power-play goal. The winger turned defenseman has 11 goals and 17 assists in 44 games this season.

He had a goal and an assist, along with five shots, two penalty minutes, and a plus-four rating. Byfuglien now has nine goals, 22 points, and 65 penalty minutes through 39 games.

Jets winger Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal and had two shots during Friday's victory against the Bruins. | 12/19/2014 10:34 PM

News

Jets winger Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal and had two shots during Friday's victory against the Bruins.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

He now has eight goals and 17 points through 33 games, along with 53 penalty minutes.

Jets winger Dustin Byfuglien will move back to defense according to the Winnipeg Free Press. | 12/04/2014 7:00 PM

News

Jets winger Dustin Byfuglien will move back to defense according to the Winnipeg Free Press.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Zach Bogosian, Grant Clitsome, and Tobias Enstrom are all out with injures, so Byfuglien will ehlp out on defense. This lowers his stock even though he probably will still be eligible to start as a winger in fantasy.

As long as Winnipeg RW/D Dustin Byfuglien keeps his eligibility as a defenseman he's got excellent fantasy value.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Byfuglien produced 56 points last season which placed him very high as a defensman, but as just an average winger and we're looking for 60 points in 2014-15.

Dustin Byfuglien part of deal for top pick? | 06/26/2014 9:32 PM

News

Winnipeg's Dustin Byfuglien has reportedly been involved in discussions between the Jets and Panthers for the number one pick in this weekend's NHL Draft.

Gary Lawless on Twitter

Impact

The rumored deal would see Big Buff go to Florida along with the ninth overall selection in the draft in exchange for Florida's number one overall pick. As it stands, the deal is nothing more than one of many unsubstantiated rumors floating around, but we'll pass along the details if it comes to fruition.

Dustin Byfuglien would prefer to play defense | 04/14/2014 9:43 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien would prefer to start next season back on defense.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He was asked if he expected to start next season as a forward and he said: "I hope not. It's been done before, so it wasn't the end of the world. I just had to go do my job, that's it. I always prefer defense first but whatever they tell me to do, I'll just go do it." Coach Paul Maurice plans to have Byfuglien on the wing again.

Byfuglien penciled in as a forward for 14-15 | 04/13/2014 2:20 PM

News

The current plan is for Dustin Byfuglien to start the 2014-15 campaign as a forward.

Ken Wiebe on Twitter

Impact

That's coming from head coach Paul Maurice though, who hasn't committed to sticking with the club beyond the 2013-14 campaign. If Maurice decides not to re-sign with the Jets, then the plans surrounding Byfuglien could change.

Jets lose Byfuglien for rest of the season | 04/07/2014 1:05 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien won't play again this season because of a muscle tear to his upper-body injury.

Winnipeg Jets on Twitter

Impact

The Jets play three times this week to close out their 2013-14 season. Byfuglien will finish the year with 20 goals and 56 points in 78 games. He made a positive transition to forward after starting out on defense and it wouldn't be surprising if he played on the wing again next campaign.

Dustin Byfuglien is day-to-day with UBI | 04/06/2014 12:04 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien left Saturday night's game with an upper-body injury.

NHL.com

Impact

Byfuglien played 11:04 before departing in the second period. "Day to day," coach Paul Maurice said. "But the extent of it we won't know 'til we get back." Jets return home for Monday's game against the Wild. Byfuglien has 20 goals and 56 points this season.

Byfuglien expected to play Saturday v Canes | 03/22/2014 1:24 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is expected to play Saturday night against Carolina.

Patrick Williams Twitter

Impact

He missed Wednesday's game with a lower-body injury but looks as he if he will be good to go Saturday night. We would take the chance and activate him.

Dustin Byfuglien is likely to return Saturday | 03/21/2014 3:58 PM

News

There's a good chance Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) will be able to return on Saturday.

NHL.com

Impact

Byfuglien will participate in the Jets' Saturday morning skate before a final determination will be made. Winnipeg is desperately trying to stay in the playoff race, so it seems likely that Byfuglien will end up playing if it's at all possible.

Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) out Wednesday | 03/19/2014 2:52 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is out with a lower-body injury.

Jets.nhl.com on Twitter

Impact

Byfuglien will miss Wednesday's contest at the least and he's day-to-day beyond that. He has 19 goals and 52 points in 70 games this season. Meanwhile the Jets are trying to hold onto what little hope they have in the battle for a playoff spot.

Dustin Byfuglien is slated to play Monday | 03/17/2014 3:40 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien wasn't on the bench for the final 10 minutes of Sunday's game, but he's expected to play Monday night.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He was held out as a precaution after he recorded two goals and an assist in a 7-2 win over Dallas. Byfuglien has generated six goals and two assists in his last five contests.

Byfuglien's two goals in the second period gave his team a 2-1 lead, but it wasn't enough for the Jets. He now has four points in his last two games and 16 goals with 32 assists overall in 66 games this season. Bryan Little assisted both goals in the loss.

Dustin Byfuglien gets goal, assist in loss | 03/08/2014 6:12 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien notched a goal and an assist in the Jets' 5-3 loss to the Senators on Saturday evening.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Byfuglien finished a minus one, but he had six shots and three hits as well. He has 14 goals and 45 points this season. Bryan Little and Tobias Enstrom were the goal scorers for Winnipeg. Enstrom finished with a game-high seven shots on net.

Dustin Byfuglien scores in loss to Capitals | 02/06/2014 10:42 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal for Winnipeg in Thursday's 4-2 loss to the Capitals.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The goal was his first in six games and just his second point over that span. Though coach Paul Maurice is fond of using Big Buff as a forward, his fantasy owners might prefer to see him serve as a blueliner, where his ice time wasn't so limited. Bryan Little also found the back of the net for Winnipeg in the loss.

Maurice happy with Dustin Byfuglien up front | 01/31/2014 6:07 AM

News

Coach Paul Maurice has liked Dustin Byfuglien's body of work at forward.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"He's been a forward for a long time. I like the way he's playing," said Winnipeg's new bench boss. "I really like the way he's into the game on the bench. He's finishing checks. He's engaged in what he's doing. He doesn't at all look like a player who's waiting for this experiment not to work and, 'I'm going back to where I want to.'" Maurice added that, "Until he makes us a better team by going on defense, then he stays there right now." Byfuglien will be looking to contribute more offensively though, as he has a goal and an assist in his last six games.

Dustin Byfuglien still plays some defense | 01/27/2014 9:22 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien has been playing some defense during his time at forward.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Coach Paul Maurice has used Byfuglien on the back end during power plays and four-on-four situations. He has fit in nicely on the wing and it doesn't look like he's heading back to full-time defense duty anytime soon.

Dustin Byfuglien notches OT game-winner | 01/25/2014 10:52 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored the game-winning goal for the Jets in overtime against the Maple Leafs in their 5-4 win Saturday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Byfuglien's goal came 2:44 into the period, his 12th of the season. He also assisted on Bryan Little's power-play goal in the second period, so "Big Buff" has 40 points on the season now. Little also had an assist, while Blake Wheeler picked up a goal and a heper as well. Zach Bogosian and Mark Scheifele notched the other goals for Winnipeg. Andrew Ladd recorded assists on two goals.

Sharks coach likes Byfuglien at forward too | 01/24/2014 6:21 AM

News

San Jose coach Todd McLellan believes Dustin Byfuglien has what it takes to be a successful forward in the NHL.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

"(Byfuglien) has a ring on his finger because of it," said McLellan referring to the time Chicago used him up front during their Stanley Cup run in 2010. "I'm sure that (Byfuglien) will make the adjustment better than most. They understand the reward system up there. If you do certain things, you'll get rewarded, with your size and your strength." McLellan and the Sharks have enjoyed success plenty of success with their conversation of Bren Burns to a forward and the two of them have similar make ups in terms of their size and skill. Winnipeg coach Paul Maurice hasn't decided yet if Byfuglien will stay at forward or return to the back end.

Dustin Byfuglien impresses new Jets coach | 01/20/2014 11:11 AM

News

While some saw the shift from defense to forward as a way for the Jets to showcase Dustin Byfuglien before the trade deadline, there's also no mistaking the new Winnipeg coach's affinity for how unique the big man is as a player.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"I think this guy's a good player," said Paul Maurice. "A really, really good player." Byfuglien appeared in his 500th NHL game Saturday against the Oilers. And while he was held off the scoresheet, he did finish plus-1, manned the point on the power play, played some minutes shorthanded and finished with three hits, a blocked shot and two takeaways.

He has picked up a goal and three assists in three games as a winger. Byfuglien has a four-game point streak going and he has 38 points in 49 games this season. His offensive success will probably keep the experiment of using him as a forward going.

Dustin Byfuglien will stay at forward for now | 01/14/2014 6:29 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien will continue to serve as a forward for now.

NHL.com

Impact

Byfuglien had two assists as a forward on Monday, which impressed new Jets coach Paul Maurice. It's still too early to say if this is a long-term change, but given that Byfuglien still has eligible as a defenseman, this is potential great news from a fantasy perspective.

Dustin Byfuglien notches 2 pts in victory | 01/13/2014 10:56 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien racked up a pair of assists for the Jets in a 5-1 win over Phoenix on Monday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Big Buff's role on the team is one of the bigger question marks now that coach Paul Maurice has arrived, but he played very well as a forward in this contest so we would be surprised if he were moved back to the blue line just yet. The Jets received goals from each of Blake Wheeler, Michael Frolik, Devin Setoguchi, Eric O'Dell and Olli Jokinen in the big win.

Dustin Byfuglien will stay up front on Monday | 01/13/2014 2:51 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien will line up as a forward again on Monday night.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

New Winnipeg coach Paul Maurice will keep Byfuglien up front just like Claude Noel did in his last game behind the bench. He will skate alongside Olli Jokinen and Devin Setoguchi. Maurice hasn't decided yet if Byfuglien will play defense or forward, but he said when he makes a call he plans to stick with it.

Jets shuffle lines with Buff on forward | 01/11/2014 2:14 PM

News

With Dustin Byfuglien lining up on forward, the Jets have shuffled all of their lines for Saturday night's game against Columbus.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Get your lineup cards out as this is going to be very different. The forward lines will be as follows: Byfuglien-Bryan Little-Andrew Ladd, Blake Wheeler-Olli Jokien-Devin Setoguchi, Eric O'Dell- Mark Scheifele-Michael Frolik and Eric Tangradi-James Wright-Chris Thorburn. Big winner in this alignment is obviously Buff with a slight bump for O'Dell who moves up from the fourth line. Big loser is Scheifele, who moves down to the third line.

Dustin Byfuglien will play forward Saturday | 01/10/2014 3:21 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is projected to serve as a forward on Saturday.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

We got our first indication that this might happen when Byfuglien served as a right winger during Thursday's skate. The offensive defenseman has experience playing as a forward, so the transition shouldn't be too severe for him. If this proves to be a permanent move, it would only help his fantasy value for the 2013-14 campaign as he'll retain eligibility as a defenseman. His projected linemates are Bryan Little and Andrew Ladd.

Dustin Byfuglien practices up front Thursday | 01/10/2014 7:31 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien practiced as a forward on Thursday.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

It's unclear if the change still stick going into Saturday's game against Columbus after coach Claude Noel said: "We're not sure what'll happen with Buff but if he's in there for the game (Saturday at home against Columbus), we will be the ones that will determine that will be the best thing for us to get us a win, to get us on track." Byfuglien got to play up front because the Jets were missing Andrew Ladd and Blake Wheeler because of the flu, while Evander Kane was out for maintenance.

Dustin Byfuglien generates two points on Tues | 01/07/2014 11:48 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal and added an assist in Tuesday's losing cause (4-2 to the Tampa Bay Lightning) for the Winnipeg Jets.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Big Buffy has three goals and two assists in his last four games, although you see the fantasy good (10 PIM, 14 SOG) with the reality bad (-5) in that span.

Lawless states that the risks outweigh the reward when it comes to the play of Byfuglien and it's easy to see why, looking at his statistics. He is tied for second on the club with 32 points (nine goals, 23 assists) in 45 games, but he also has a team-worst minus-14 rating and he's second in the NHL in giveaways with 55. Byfuglien often struggles with consistency, which isn't something Winnipeg wants to see from a player who averages 26:08 of ice time per game, which is the most on the team. It will be interesting if the Jets view Byfuglien the same and look to move him.

His ninth marker of the year opened the scoring in the contest and it was unassisted. Byfuglien also registered seven shots in the match.

Dustin Byfuglien enjoys big game vs. Sens | 01/02/2014 10:38 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal and added an assist for the Jets in a 4-3 loss to Ottawa Thursday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Like Kyle Okposo, Byfuglien's best game in a while comes a day after fit was announced that he wouldn't be part of Team USA. Evander Kane and Olli Jokinen also scored goals for the Jets in the loss.

Dustin Byfuglien hasn't helped his plus-minus | 12/27/2013 9:32 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien owns a team-worst minus-15 rating this season.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He has recorded a plus rating just three times in his last 17 games. Byfuglien has been good offensively with 27 points (six goals, 21 assists) in 39 games, which ties him for second on the Jets and ranks him third among all blueliners. Still, he'll need to tidy up his play in his own end.

Dustin Byfuglien struggles to score points | 12/11/2013 12:51 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien didn't score a point in the Winnipeg Jets' 2-1 loss to the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The beefy blueliner only has one point in his last six games. Byfuglien had 4 blocks, 4 hits, a penalty, and one shot, though.

Dustin Byfuglien records two assists Monday | 11/26/2013 8:15 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien earned two assists in Monday's win over New Jersey.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

His two-point outing moved him into second among defensemen in scoring with 21 points in 26 games. Byfuglien also had a plus-3 rating and two penalty minutes in the contest.

Big Byfuglien scores again in losing effort | 11/21/2013 10:57 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored a goal in his fourth consecutive game Thursday, but the Jets dropped a 6-3 decision to Chicago.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Byfuglien has been a man among boys for the past couple of weeks and has been pleasing his fantasy owners in the process. Andrew Ladd also picked up a goal and an assist in the losing effort while Keaton Ellerby also talented.

The hulking blue liner scored a goal, his fifth in five games, and added an assist, six penalty minutes and six shots on goal in the defeat. Bryan Little also picked up a goal and an assist while Olli Jokinen and Michael Frolik contributed the other Winnipeg goals.

Dustin Byfuglien produces Jets' goal in loss | 11/17/2013 11:00 PM

News

Defenseman Dustin Byfuglien is on somewhat of a streak after scoring in the Jets' 2-1 loss to the Wild in Minnesota Sunday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

It was Byfuglien's fourth goal of the season. He scored twice in Winnipeg's 3-2 shootout victory over Philadelphia Friday night.

Byfuglien scored late in the third on the power play to send the game to a shootout. The big defenseman has three goals and 14 points in 21 games so far.

Dustin Byfuglien ends 18-game goal drought | 11/11/2013 9:30 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien recorded his first goal of the season on Sunday in a 5-4 shootout win over San Jose.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

The Jets defenseman ended an 18-game goalless drought in the process. Byfuglien also picked up five shots, two penalty minutes, two blocks and a plus-2 rating in nearly 27 minutes of playing time. Including his goal and the one scored by defense partner, Grant Clitsome, on Sunday night, the Jets have six markers on the year from their back end. Getting more production from them would certainly help moving forward.

Jets looking for goals from Dustin Byfuglien | 10/31/2013 9:47 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is tied for third on the Jets in scoring with nine points in 14 games.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Unfortunately, he doesn't have a goal yet. Byfuglien has been credited with 48 shots, which ranks him second on the team. He has 20 penalty minutes, 28 hits and 28 blocks as well. He has managed to stay fantasy relevant despite the puck not going into the net for him, but the Jets need him to provide goals.

Coach likes reliability of Dustin Byfuglien | 10/21/2013 8:16 AM

News

Coach Claude Noel has been impressed with the play of Dustin Byfuglien early into the 2013-14 campaign.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"He's been reliable. He's taken the ups and downs out of his game," said Noel. "He's minimized the risk in his game and this leads to way more stability in our back end... He hasn't traded the offense for just defense. You see it in the numbers we track. We track scoring chances for and against when a player is on the ice. They're a lot better this year than last year. He's on the ice against the other team's better players all the time and often that makes a player a minus in the numbers we track, but clearly he's been better in that area this year." He has accounted for seven assists, 19 hits, 19 blocks, 30 shots and a minus-1 rating in nine games this year.

Dustin Byfuglien returns to practice Monday | 10/01/2013 6:07 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien was back at practice Monday after he missed most of Sunday's session.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He's expected to be all systems go for Winnipeg's regular-season opener versus Edmonton on Tuesday night. Rookie defenseman Jacob Trouba might be Byfuglien's partner in the contest since Grant Clitsome was placed on injured reserve Monday.

Noel expects Dustin Byfuglien to play Tuesday | 09/30/2013 9:19 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is considered day-to-day after his Sunday skate lasted just 10 minutes.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He slid into the boards legs-first in Friday's exhibition loss to Boston. Coach Claude Noel said Byfuglien was "fine" afterward and he expects him to be ready for Tuesday's regular season opener. "Precautionary measures," he said to explain Byfuglien's brief skate. "We're being intelligent on that part. We expect him to be a player, yes." Monday or Tuesday's practice session could ultimately determine his status.

Dustin Byfuglien had leg cramp, is 'fine' | 09/28/2013 4:02 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is "fine" after he had to be helped off the ice Friday.

Ken Wiebe on Twitter

Impact

Coach Claude Noel said the Byfuglien had to leave the game because a cramp locked up his leg.

Dustin Byfuglien skated more in off-season | 09/13/2013 6:36 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien made news in Winnipeg when he showed up for camp looking leaner and quicker, but according to him it wasn't the result of a special diet or improved training regime.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"I didn't really do anything different. I was on the ice a little bit more," he said. "I did what I had to do to come to camp ready to go." Byfuglien wants to be more consistent in 2013-14 and if he can elevate his play at both ends of the ice then the Jets and his fantasy owners will benefit.

Dustin Byfuglien appears 'slimmer and fitter' | 09/09/2013 3:16 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien showed up for an informal skate with his Winnipeg teammates on Monday and, according to Gary Lawless of the Winnipeg Free Press, he looked "slimmer and fitter than he has in his time with the Jets."

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

There was a report that the big defenseman weighed in at over 300 pounds by the time the lockout-shortened season ended, so it would appear that he has put in some work over the summer in terms of the his conditioning. Byfuglien has a tough time maintaining his weight, which has been a common criticism of his in the past. Still, he can put up points from the back end. He can also contribute shots, hits and penalty minutes, which makes him an attractive fantasy option.

Byfuglien would love to crack U.S. roster | 08/27/2013 10:18 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien has never played for the United States internationally, but he would love to get his first chance to do so at the Winter Olympics.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"It would mean a lot (to be selected). It's one of those things that's hard to explain. It's something you dream about as a kid, and as I'm getting older I want to be in the Olympics and at least do something for the USA," he said. "It's a great opportunity to have and hopefully we can make things so we can put on the jersey." Byfuglien was chosen to play for Team USA at the 2008 world championships, but he had to back out because of injury). He was also invited to the U.S. camp in 2009, but was not selected to the Olympic team.

U.S. GM calls Dustin Byfuglien a "wild card." | 07/27/2013 11:36 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien is one of four players invited to the U.S. Olympic tryouts but general manager David Poile confesses that management of the American team is uncertain about the big defenseman.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"I have to choose my words wisely," Poile said in discussing Byfuglien. He's a bit of a wild card. He's never participated in any USA Hockey tournaments. Our committee doesn't know him as well as some of the other guys and we want to get to know him a bit. He's a tremendous talent. The decision will come down to how he plays in October, November and December. We'll be watching him closely."

"Buff is a very unique player," Cheveldayoff said. "He has the size a lot of players, a lot of teams, would covet in this league, with respect to the push to get a bigger, harder player to play against. I could see where teams would have interest. I could see where rumors would start. But it's not something I've contemplated or I've talked about in great detail with any other team about trading him." He also shrugged off a report that Byfuglien weighed in at over 300 pounds by the end of the season. Byfuglien led the Jets defense corps with 28 points in 43 games this past season, which tied him for ninth in the league among all NHL blueliners.

Report: Byfuglien's weight went over 300 | 06/11/2013 6:40 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien reportedly weighed 302 pounds by the end of the 2013 campaign, according to Jets blogger Pete Tessier.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Byfuglien's fitness levels have been a common source of criticism in the past and it may be hurting his trade value in any potential deals down the road. Coach Claude Noel referred to Byfuglien's play as "up and down" late in the season and if the Jets want to maximize his value then he will have improve his fitness and get more consistent.

Will Jets trade Dustin Byfuglien | 04/27/2013 3:38 PM

News

A Winnipeg columnist argued that the Jets need to trade Dustin Byfuglien.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Byfuglien's defensive struggles, fitness, and consistency issues were cited as reasons to deal him. Who knows if a trade will ever materialize, but he's a remain a great offensive defenseman from a fantasy perspective.

Dustin Byfuglien gets assist in loss | 04/22/2013 9:44 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien registered an assist in the Jets' 2-1 win over the Sabres Monday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Byfuglien is a great player to own in several leagues because of his versatility. With the helper tonight, the category-stuffing defenseman has 26 points in 41 games in this 48-game shortened season.

Jets may tinker more with Byfuglien up front | 04/03/2013 7:16 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien played some of Tuesday's game as a forward in a 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He switched from defense to right wing in the contest and played on the top line with Bryan Little and Andrew Ladd. "We've got to win games. I'll determine (whether Byfuglien will remain up front) later, I'm not going to determine that tonight," said coach Claude Noel following the defeat. "We'll see how it goes. But we've got to win games, that's the bottom line and that's what our task has been for some time." Byfuglien's promotion shifted Blake Wheeler to the second unit alongside Evander Kane and Olli Jokinen. Noel seemed to like his new on-the-fly combinations and 'Big Buff' said he's fine with the move if that's where he's needed, so the experiment may not be over yet.

Dustin Byfuglien scores in loss to Capitals | 03/23/2013 12:33 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien scored the lone Winnipeg tally in a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of the Capitals on Friday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

After a poor stretch for him following an early season injury Byfuglien is now looking like his old self. With 19 points in 27 games, we can't really argue with the production he has generated. Andrew Ladd and Grant Clitsome drew assists on the goal.

Dustin Byfuglien help pointless vs. Caps | 03/22/2013 1:36 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien's hot streak was cooled by the Capitals in a 4-0 shutout loss on Thursday.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Byfuglien entered the game having amassed seven points in his prior five match ups, but he and the rest of his teammates were blanked in the loss. Despite registering a minus-2 rating in the game, the offensive-minded blue liner did direct five shots on goal.

Dustin Byfuglien helpers spark power play | 03/15/2013 6:50 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien has collected five assists in the past two games for Winnipeg.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

In both games he picked up a power-play assist to help the Jets open the scoring on markers from Nik Antropov. "Write this down: we've scored a power-play goal in every game the last two games and we've won," coach Claude Noel said. "We've won the special-teams game there and make sure you make a note of that. You guys have been grilling us forever."

Byfuglien joins Jets after attending funeral | 03/06/2013 9:20 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien arrived in time to play Tuesday night after joining his teammates in Florida from Minnesota.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He traveled back home to attend his grandfather's funeral. Byfuglien logged just over 21 minutes of ice time against the Panthers, while posting four shots and one hit. He has 10 points in 17 games this season, but hasn't scored a goal since Jan. 27.

| 03/06/2013 2:27 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien returned to action on Tuesday March 5.

Rotoworld.com

Dustin Byfuglien will play Tuesday vs. FLA | 03/05/2013 6:40 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien (personal) will be in the lineup against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday.

Gary Lawless on Twitter

Impact

Byfuglien returned home to Minnesota to deal with a personal matter and there were concerns that bad weather would derail his return to the team. Owners should feel safe putting Byfuglien back in their lineups Tuesday night.

Jets' Byfuglien (personal) may not play Tues. | 03/04/2013 6:35 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien didn't practice Monday because he was attending to a personal matter back home in Minnesota.

Ottawa Sun

Impact

He is expected to travel to Florida tomorrow and be in the lineup for Tuesday night's game against the Panthers as long as the weather doesn't hinder his travel arrangements. "You'd have to be a little bit concerned because they are expecting bad weather all the way from Winnipeg down to Minny and Chicago," coach Claude Noel said. Derek Meech will play in Byfuglien's place if he can't make it in time.

| 02/27/2013 3:45 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien returned to action on Tuesday February 26.

Rotoworld.com

Dustin Byfuglien will play Tuesday vs. NYR | 02/26/2013 6:47 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) is expected to be in the lineup Tuesday against the New York Rangers.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

Byfuglien left Sunday's game against the Devils with the ailment after missing five games earlier this season with a lower-body injury, although it's unknown if the injuries are connected. Owners should feel free to use Byfuglien as they normally would Tuesday, but they should be aware that he could be dealing with a lingering injury.

Byfuglien may be dealing with a lingering LBI | 02/26/2013 8:35 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien will see how he feels Tuesday morning, but according to team officials "he looks like a player for [tonight]."

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He was forced to leave Sunday's game because of a lower-body injury and has missed five contests already this year with a lower-body ailment as well. In seven games since returning, he has just two assists and they came in one match. Byfuglien's ice time is also down since he came back, which suggests that the big defenseman may be playing through something that has continued to linger.

Byfuglien couldn't complete Sunday's contest due to the ailment. He has nine points and 12 penalty minutes in 13 games this season.

Byfuglien is out with an undisclosed injury | 02/25/2013 12:41 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien suffered an undisclosed injury during Sunday's game.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Byfuglien left the game in the third period. "It's nothing to do with the (injury) he had previous to this," Jets coach Claude Noel said. "It's just a new thing. It's day-to-day. We'll reassess him tomorrow and see how he's doing." Noel is referring to the lower body injury that was bothering Byfuglien earlier this month.

Jets try out Byfuglien as net presence on PP | 02/20/2013 10:14 AM

News

The Jets tried using Dustin Byfuglien in front of the net on their only power play against Buffalo Tuesday night.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

"We thought it hasn't been clicking that much but Buff was a really good player in front of the net when he was in Chicago," said coach Claude Noel. "He's a big man that's hard to see around. He makes the goalie work and really give you some grief. We need to practice it a little bit more, but I think it's got some potential." Olli Jokinen filled in on the point. The Jets currently have the NHL's 15th ranked power play.

Dustin Byfuglien is slated to play Tuesday | 02/12/2013 8:15 AM

News

Coach Claude Noel expects to have Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) back in the lineup for Tuesday's game against Philadelphia.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

The Winnipeg bench boss is happy to welcome the big defenseman back into the team's lineup and fantasy owners should activate him immediately.

Report: Dustin Byfuglien ready to return | 02/10/2013 2:42 PM

News

The Winnipeg Free Press reports that Dustin Byfuglien looks ready to return to action on Tuesday.

Ed Tait on Twitter

Impact

It might be best to wait for an official confirmation from the team if you were lucky enough to stash him on the IR. Anyway, this is great news as the category-stuffing defenseman has missed the Winnipeg Jets' last five games.

Byfuglien (lower body) won't play Saturday | 02/09/2013 1:15 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien won't be in the lineup for Winnipeg Saturday versus the Ottawa Senators, as he's still dealing with a lower-body injury.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

It will be the fifth straight game he missed with the ailment. Byfuglien remained behind in Winnipeg to continue getting treatment. The team is still saying he is "day-to-day."

Dustin Byfuglien not ruled out to play Thurs. | 02/06/2013 10:50 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) hasn't been ruled out of playing in Thursday's home game versus Toronto.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

He has been sidelined for nearly a week with a lower-body injury and is still considered to be day-to-day.

Jets hope others step up with Byfuglien out | 02/05/2013 8:17 AM

News

The Winnipeg Jets will miss Dustin Byfuglien as long as he remains sidelined with a lower-body ailment.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

It's easy to see when you look at the fact that he was averaging nearly 27 minutes of ice time per contest before he got hurt. He contributes offense from the back end, plays a physical game and does a great deal of work on specialty teams. "Buff's a good player. He can do a lot of things," said coach Claude Noel. "He plays a big-man's game, as well, defensively. We miss him, but you move on and it opens a door for somebody else. Certainly we recognize that." The Jets are looking at players like Zach Redmond and Paul Postma to help pick up the slack to help the already established Tobias Enstrom. Byfuglien is currently listed as day-to-day and he's not expected to play on Tuesday versus Florida.

Dustin Byfuglien is out Tuesday | 02/04/2013 6:58 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien will miss a third consecutive game on Tuesday.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

Byfuglien wasn't on the ice with the Jets for Monday's practice. Winnipeg hasn't offered many specifics regarding Byfuglien's injury, although they did say that he sustained it off the ice. Jets coach Claude Noel also said that he doesn't anticipate Byfuglien missing weeks over this ailment.

Dustin Byfuglien (lower body) is out Friday | 02/01/2013 5:37 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien's undisclosed injury is related to his lower body.

Winnipeg Sun

Impact

So at least we know that now. Byfuglien aggravated something that prevented him from playing on Thursday. He will also miss Friday's contest against Tampa Bay.

The Jets did not go into details about Byfuglien's injury, so for now consider him day-to-day with an undisclosed ailment.

Byfuglien a game-time decision vs. Florida | 01/31/2013 4:38 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien will be a game-time decision for Thursday night's match with Florida.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

He didn't partake in the team's morning skate and coach Claude Noel said the big defenseman "aggravated something" prior to the session. Byfuglien has been hot of late with six points, including four assists, in his past four games.

Jets' top defensive pairing on a roll | 01/26/2013 12:50 PM

News

Winnipeg's number-one defensive pairing has eight points in its last two games.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Dustin Byfuglien has a goal and three assists and his partner, Tobias Enstrom, has four assists. Both should remain great fantasy plays this season.

Dustin Byfuglien gets two points Friday | 01/26/2013 12:42 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien had a goal and an assist in Winnipeg's 4-2 win Friday night.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Evander Kane, Blake Wheeler, and Andrew Ladd each scored a goal and registered an assist for the Jets. Bryan Little and Tobias Enstrom each registered an assist Friday.

Jets' Byfuglien is getting plenty of ice time | 01/24/2013 10:02 AM

News

Dustin Byfuglien has averaged 27:09 of ice time through Winnipeg's first three games of the 2013 season.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

That ranks him fifth in the NHL in the early going of the shortened season. "We're trying to manage minutes. We know that his conditioning level is good," said coach Claude Noel. "With the situation that it is and was, we're happy with him being able to log the minutes he's getting." Noel added that the minutes aren't as important as the consistency he has played at. Byfuglien has a goal and two assists so far this year and is a great player to own in several leagues because of his versatility.

Dustin Byfuglien arrives in Winnipeg | 01/09/2013 4:09 PM

News

Dustin Byfuglien arrived in Winnipeg on Wednesday and faced several questions about his conditioning.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

Byfuglien said his weight "stayed right around the same" over the summer and that he feels "fine." He spent the lockout at his Minnneaoplis-area home and skated regularly with a large group. "We had 30-plus guys down there," Byfuglien said. "It wasn't bad to be there and go to the rink every day because you had a good group of guys to go skate with. It was a good little game. Some days it was tough to get up and go but it wasn't that bad."

Ladd confident about Byfuglien's fitness | 01/09/2013 10:48 AM

News

Training camp hasn't started yet and there are already some wondering how the lockout has impacted the fitness level of Winnipeg defenseman Dustin Byfuglien.

Winnipeg Free Press

Impact

His weight has become a popular topic since Day 1 in Winnipeg, but Jets captain Andrew Ladd isn't worried about it. He said Tuesday that Byfuglien has been working out regularly during the lockout with a large group in Minnesota and he believes the talented defender is ready to make an impact. Byfuglien overcame a slow start last season to record 12 goals and 53 points in 66 games, so his fantasy value will remain high going into this campaign.